US Decides Against Backing Saudi Arabia in Yemen Following Talks in Oman
Following a critical meeting between the US and the Houthis in Oman, the Washington administration decided not to provide military intervention to Saudi Arabia against the advance in Yemen.
After US officials met with Houthi leaders in Oman, Washington decided not to back Saudi Arabia, receiving assurances that international maritime shipping in the Red Sea would not be targeted.
Critical Contacts in Oman
US officials met directly with Houthi leaders over the weekend at the US embassy in Oman's capital, Muscat. Following this diplomatic contact, the Washington administration decided against military intervention to assist Saudi Arabia against the Houthi advance inside Yemen.
Red Sea and Maritime Security Assurance
The Iran-backed Houthi movement informed the US that the 2025 ceasefire agreement remains valid and that they have no intentions of attacking US ships in the Red Sea. However, it was stated that Saudi Arabia-linked vessels will continue to be targets due to the blockade on Yemen.
Mutual Claims and Regional Reactions
While US Vice President JD Vance confirmed direct contact with Houthi officials, the Saudi Arabian administration claimed that the Houthis launched a drone toward Mecca, which was intercepted and destroyed in the air. The Houthi leadership dismissed this accusation as completely unfounded.
Diplomatic Quests and Regional Balances
The developments have prompted Saudi Arabia to seek diplomatic solutions or build regional alliances with countries such as Pakistan and Turkey. Separate diplomatic processes involving Israel, Iran, China, and the United Nations are also ongoing, shadowed by high oil prices.